The BMA’s GP Committee has voted against organising industrial action over this year’s GP contract, a Pulse exclusive reveals.
In a close vote, 42% of GPC members voted for industrial action over the 2023/24 contract imposition, with the remaining 58% of GPC members voting to see how the 2024 five-year contract negotiations progresses.
However, 98% of members voted in favour of an indicative ballot in the coming months if the Government fails to negotiate a new contract that is fit for purpose, according to the BMA.
Last month the GPC warned Pulse that it was contemplating whole-day practice closures as part of possible industrial action over the contract imposition.
GP industrial action debates persist in the midst of NHS strikes across England. Offers to GPs of up to £200 per hour were made by London trusts to incentivise work during junior doctors’ strikes earlier this month.
Meanwhile nurses were forced yesterday to call off strikes after a high court judge ruled protests ‘unlawful’.
April 2023 is already the busiest month to date on LocumDeck, beating record highs already seen for March and January. GP locum bookings on LocumDeck have doubled in a year, NASGP reported last September.
Dr Richard Fieldhouse, NASGP chair, said: “I appreciate the BMA’s GP Committee has decided that industrial action is not necessary for this year’s contract, indicating a level of satisfaction with the current terms, even if not perfect, which is preferable to the difficult decision of going on strike.
“Although I fully support their right to take industrial action if needed, it’s definitely a relief for everyone that negotiations for the 2024 contract can continue without the immediate threat of industrial action. Fingers crossed that ongoing negotiations for the 2024 contract turn out better.
“It’s worth mentioning, though, that many GPs have already stepped away from partnerships or employed roles to become GP locums. So, any new contract should not only pass muster with current partners but also be enticing enough to keep GPs from leaving and maybe even attract more to join.
“Let’s just hope that both sides can find common ground and reach a solid agreement, so we don’t see any further unnecessary disruptions this year.”